In S4Ep18 of the PRP, Adam chaotically converses with decorated all distance runner, passionate Altra enthusiast, infamous local legend and all around family man Mike Andersen who has been preparing for the Detroit Free Press Marathon on Sunday October 20th, 2024. Katie Andersen, sabbatical’d ultramarathoner, mama bear extraordinaire, and Mike’s better half joins the show (along with their daughters Ally & Maddy Andersen) to offer their take on all things running, Red Robin, and of course how many times dad poops each morning.
Buckle up as this conversation comes in HOT with frantic family banter on everything from candy corn to corn hole. Ally plays lacrosse and loves to run, but did you know Maddy is a Swiftie?! They both play basketball and really love it, oh yeah did we mention that they love Diet Coke? But seriously they’re not supposed to drink it on school nights but that’s ok cuz tonight is special. Oh wait, wait, Maddy likes to run too!! Keep up, if you can!
Things settle in and start to get vulnerable when Mike reflects on his running journey and ruminates on how becoming a family man has reshaped his relationship with the sport. Being a husband and father come first, and then running fits into the cracks. Mike shares some valuable anecdotes about what it means to walk the fine line between balance and force as he explains the less expectation he carries with him to the starting line, the better he has come to perform. He’s found magic in just letting things happen - a practice in which he credits Katie for helping him fully understand, but more importantly, accept. Without Katie’s ability to help Mike communicate, reframe, prioritize and let go he admits he’s not sure where he’d be in life, or running. One thing is for sure, Mike's successes on the pavement, trail and track are a TEAM effort, and everyone in the Andersen family is on the roster!
What on earth is the 10 year trifecta?! Who’s Barkley? Hoopin? Poopin? Newton? 5 nanners at once?!? Uh oh, did mom just say a swear word?! 2-a-days every day?!? Chief Pontiac, Border Patrol & billboards oh my!
This and so much more in this wholesome, energetic and enraptured episode of the PRP!
Explain that Strava section:
Mike's Strava Activity Swiftie
Sponsors
Ann Arbor Running Company
Recorded Thursday October 17th @ 6:00PM EST